Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts has commented on the DAERA Ministers increased plastic bag levy from 5p to 25p.
Glyn Roberts said:
“We absolutely share Ministers Poots objective of less plastic being in circulation and continuing to litter our streets.
“Retail NI members have led the way in in reducing plastic packaging and promoting bag for life options”
“Northern Ireland already has one of the most extensive carrier bag levies in the UK, covering single use and plastic which has led to a reduction in Carrier Bag usage by 73.2% (1.5 billion bags).
“Retail NI argued for the current 5p charge to be increased to a more realistic figure of 10p in line with what is being proposed in England and Scotland”
“We believe this excessive 500% increase will disproportionally impact on low-income families at time of huge economic turmoil with Covid-19, high Energy Bills and increases in National Insurance”
“We have asked for an immediate meeting with the Minister to discuss these proposals”